Thimphu, BHUTAN – The Tourism Council of Bhutan has partnered with Virtuoso, the world’s leading luxury travel network. Virtuoso is a by-invitation-only organization comprising over 330 agencies with more than 7,200 elite travel advisors in the world and more than 1,300 of the world’s best travel providers and premier destinations, Bhutan among them.

Virtuoso’s partnership with Bhutan is not surprising given the many unique, world-class experiences the destination has to offer. As found in Virtuoso’s recent 2012 Luxe Report, elite travelers are seeking “authentic experiences in new destinations; rest and relaxation; and personal enrichment” – and Bhutan provides that and more. Its friendly, fulfilled people; breathtaking natural beauty; plethora of cultural and outdoor activities; and exceptional properties and amenities make Bhutan a true virtuoso of the world.

Through this new alliance, Bhutan will be connected to Virtuoso’s affluent clientele, including World Elite MasterCard holders, as well as to its member agencies, affording the Tourism Council the opportunity to educate travel providers about Bhutan and to offer travelers exclusive specials and privileged access. Along with the destination itself now being a part of Virtuoso, two Bhutanese tour operators (Dharma Adventures Bhutan and Bhutan Safaris and Tours) and a Bhutanese resort group (Amankora) are also members of the network.

For more information on the Kingdom of Bhutan, visit the Tourism Council of Bhutan’s website at www.tourism.gov.bt. Representatives from the Tourism Council of Bhutan will also be attending Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas from August 11-17, 2012.